Bearman's Damning Verdict on the Las Vegas Street Circuit
Haas rookie Oliver Bearman has harshly criticized the Las Vegas Street Circuit, calling it the "least enjoyable" street track he's driven due to extremely low grip and dangerous high speeds near walls. His candid remarks raise concerns about driver safety and the overall quality of the circuit, contrasting with the usual excitement of street races and potentially impacting the event's long-term reputation.
Haas rookie Oliver Bearman has voiced strong disapproval of the Las Vegas Street Circuit after participating in two practice sessions, describing it as the "least enjoyable street track" he has ever driven. His comments highlight significant concerns about grip levels and safety on the high-speed urban course, contrasting sharply with the typically positive experiences drivers have on street circuits.
Why it matters:
- Driver Safety and Enjoyment: Bearman's blunt assessment, especially from a rookie experiencing the circuit for the first time, raises questions about driver enjoyment and safety, critical aspects for any new F1 venue.
- Circuit Reputation: Negative feedback from drivers, particularly on a high-profile, newly added Grand Prix, could impact the long-term perception and reputation of the Las Vegas event within the F1 community and among fans.
- Performance Impact: Low grip and close walls create a challenging environment, potentially leading to more incidents and impacting the competitive balance as teams and drivers struggle to adapt.
The Details:
- "Least Enjoyable": Bearman explicitly stated, "This is the least enjoyable street track I've driven," noting that street tracks are usually "really, really fun and great."
- Low Grip Concerns: He emphasized the "really, really low grip," which he described as a "not great combination when you have the walls very close."
- High-Speed Danger: Bearman also pointed out the circuit's "incredibly high speed," which he believes makes it "dangerous."
- Mixed Feelings: While acknowledging the novelty of racing in Las Vegas, he concluded, "aside from that, there's not much good stuff" regarding the track itself.
- Haas's Performance: During the practice sessions, Haas struggled, with Bearman and his teammate finishing P16 and P17 in FP1, and P17 and P19 in FP2, a session notably interrupted by manhole issues.
- Fellow Driver Comments: Other drivers, including Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, also commented on the slippery conditions but expressed anticipation for track improvement over the weekend, hinting at a more optimistic outlook than Bearman's.
The Big Picture:
The Las Vegas Grand Prix, a major promotional push for Formula 1 in the United States, has faced scrutiny since its inception, from initial logistical challenges to now, driver feedback on the track's characteristics. While the spectacle and location are undeniable draws, the core racing experience and driver satisfaction remain paramount for the sport's credibility. Bearman's comments add to the ongoing discussion about the balance between entertainment and sporting integrity at new F1 venues.
What's next:
As the weekend progresses, it remains to be seen how the track conditions evolve and if other drivers will echo Bearman's strong sentiments. Teams will continue to work on optimizing their setups for the unique challenges of the Las Vegas circuit. The ultimate test will be the race itself, where reliability, grip, and managing the high-speed sections will be crucial for success, potentially overshadowing the glitz and glamour if safety or race quality issues persist.